Effect of propranolol on capsular reaction around silicone implants in guinea pigs.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of propranolol on capsular architecture around silicone implants by measuring the inflammation, capsular thickness, and collagen fiber density, using a guinea pig experimental model.

Methods: Thirty six adult male guinea pigs randomly divided into two groups (n=18) were used. Each one received a silicone implant with textured-surface. The capsular tissue around implants from untreated or treated animals with the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol (10 mg/kg, dissolved in daily water) were analyzed for inflammation by histological scoring, capsular thickness by computerized histometry, and collagen fibers type I and Type III density by picrosirius polarization at different time points (7, 14 or 21 days after silicone implantation).

Results: Propranolol treatment reduced inflammation and impaired capsular thickness and delayed collagen maturation around the textured implant.

Conclusions: Propranolol reduces the risk of developing capsular contracture around silicone implants with textured surface.